Problem Reports
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1999 Volkswagen GTI
High Mileage Automatic Transmissions May Have Shifting Problems
Shifting issues due to internal problems in high mileage automatic transmissions can be difficult to resolve without transmission replacement.
Reverse Gear Failures and/or Noise From Manual Transmission
Reverse gear failures and noise in the manual transmission models are common.
Power Window May Fail Due to Window Regulator
One or more power windows may fail. Our technicians tell us this is commonly due to a failed window regulator which will require replacement.
One or Both Head Lights May Not Work
One or both head lights may not work due to premature head light bulb burnout and/or bulb harness failure. Care should be taken to inspect the head light harness connector for damage when replacing bulbs. Damaged connectors should be replaced.
Check Engine Light Due to Dirty/Failed Throttle Body
A dirty or failed throttle body can cause various drivability issues and illumination of the Check Engine Light.
Mass Air Flow Sensor May Fail
The mass air flow (MAF) sensor may fail, resulting in drivability issues and/or illumination of the Check Engine Light.
Check Engine Light Due to Ignition Component/Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Failure
Due to an ignition component and/or engine coolant temperature sensor failure, the Check Engine Light may illuminate. Replacement of the failed component will be necessary to correct this concern.
Inspect Brakes at Every Service as Rear Brakes Wear Out Quickly
The rear brakes tend to wear out quickly; rotors may need replacement by the first brake job. Our technicians recommend that the brakes be inspected for wear regularly.
Check Engine Light With no Drivablity Issue
The Check Engine Light may illuminate because of evaporative (EVAP) emission failures and/or intake manifold vacuum leaks.
Difficult to Diagnose Electrical Issues Are Typically Due to Ground Issues
Electrical issues that are difficult to diagnose—and sometimes intermittent—are typically due to ground wiring issues. The most troublesome ground locations are under the battery or at the engine.
Engine Overheating Due to Damaged Water Pump Impeller
A damaged water pump impeller may cause an engine overheating condition. Our technicians tell us the repair should include replacement of the water pump, thermostat, and flushing the cooling system.
Coolant Leak From Oil Filter Housing O-ring
A coolant leak may develop after oil filter replacement. The coolant o-ring seal can be damaged if the oil filter housing turns when removing or installing the oil filter. The recommended procedure is to hold the filter housing when tightening or loosening the oil filter.